Twenty five years ago, on 12 August 1986, American legend Paul Simon released his legendary CD, Graceland. It was a hit, topping the UK Album Chart, and reaching number three on the US Billboard 200. The album won the 1986 Grammy Award for Album of the Year, while the title song won the 1987 Grammy for Record of the Year. Graceland sold 14 million copies and in 2007, the album was added to the United States National Recording Registry, along with another 24 significant recordings that year. Graceland features an eclectic mixture of musical styles including pop, a cappella, isicathamiya, rock, and mbaqanga. Much of the album was recorded in South Africa, and it features many South African musicians and groups. Simon faced accusations that he had broken the cultural boycott imposed by the rest of the world against the apartheid regime in South Africa, which was in its final years at the time. This view was not supported by the United Nations Anti-Apartheid Committee, as the album showcased the talents of the black South African musicians while offering no support to the South African government. The worldwide success of the album introduced some of the musicians, especially the vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo, to global audiences of their own.

To celebrate the 25 years of Graceland, Paul and US based South African bassist Bakithi Khumalo quietly slipped into the country this week to shoot a documentary about the Graceland project. The documentary is a closely guarded secret, but Twitter-ville have been Tweeting about it that past week. Bakithi told Soweton that he and Simon were indeed in the country to shoot part of the documentary, but refused to shed more light. He referred any further questions regarding the project to Simon. "For any more details regarding the documentary, you will have to speak to Paul Simon himself." Could there be a Graceland 2 in the works?

* Paul's latest CD, So Beautiful or So What, was released in April this year.

Thursday, 28 July 2011

Multi-platinum superstars Blink-182 are back with Up All Night, the trio’s first new song in eight years. The song is from the band’s yet untitled new CD, and is available for streaming on the band’s website www.blink182.com. With their energized pop-savvy sound, blink-182 spearheaded a new school punk scene. Since their 1994 full-length debut, blink-182 has sold over 11 million albums and filled arenas and stadiums both in the U.S. and worldwide. All six of their albums have been certified either gold or double platinum, with 1999’s Enema of the State selling more than 4 million copies. In 2005, blink-182 announced they were going on an indefinite hiatus. They came back together four years later and began work on their new album. In August, blink-182 will hit the road with My Chemical Romance as part of the 2011 Honda Civic Tour, which will reach 38 US cities. In addition, blink-182 will be touring throughout Canada. Details about all tour dates can be found on www.hondacivictour.com as well as the band’s web site.

"An uncanny number of musicians have passed away at age 27, and with the death of Amy Winehouse on Saturday 23 July, the club has unfortunately recieved a new member. Here we reflect on some of the 27 Club's most notable talents: Kurt, Janis, Jimi, Jim and now Amy may be gone, but none of them will be forgotten."

Amy Winehouse (14 September 1983 - 23 July 2011)
With her heartfelt songs about love and heartbreak powered by her alluring alto vocals, Amy Winehouse's prowess laid in her fearlessness to showcase her vulnerability. Unfortunately, the British soul singer's potential and success were overshadowed by her addiction to alcohol and drugs. As Winehouse sold millions of albums and won numerous awards, Winehouse was personally tormented by substance addiction, eating disorders and destructive relationships, most notably with her husband Blake Fielder-Civil. In May 2011, at the advice of her father, Winehouse checked into rehab. On July 23, two months later, police found the singer dead at her London loft. At the time of the announcement, a cause fo death was still undetermined.

Kristen Pfaff (26 May 1967 - 16 June 1994)
Though much of the spotlight shone on volatile frontwoman Courtney Love, Hole bassist Kristen Pfaff struggled with her own demons during the group's rise. In June 1994, two months after the release of Hole's acclaimed "Live Through This" album, Pfaff was found dead in her apartment, having overdosed on heroin.

Jim Morrison (8 December 1943 - 3 July 1971)
Rock 'n' roll's "Lizard King" was born in Florida to a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral and formed the Doors in 1965 with fellow UCLA film school student and keyboardist Ray Manzarek. Morrison's poetic lyrics and shaman-like stage presence made him one of the most provocative frontmen of the time, and the fact that he looked good in tight leather trousers and without a shirt made him a teenybop sensation as well. The Doors racked up seven Top 40 singles and as many Top 10 albums, though a restless Morrison -- who had been found guilty of indecency at a Miami concert in 1969 -- grew disenchanted with the pop mainstream and, in effect, left the group after making 1971's "L.A. Woman." He moved to Paris to write poetry before being found dead in the bathtub of his apartment on the Right Bank. But because no autopsy was performed and no one from the Doors camp ever saw his body, rumors have persisted that Morrison faked his death in order to return to a life of anonymity. Nevertheless, his grave at Paris' Pere Lachaise is one of the most visited -- and heavily graffitied - in the famed cemetery.

Kurt Cobain
(20 February 1967 - 5 April 1994)
With a sly smile, ferocious fuzzed-out guitar and wry, poetic lyrics, Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain led the charge for the alt-rock explosion of the 90s. After releasing three acclaimed albums with the group (most notably 1991's culture-shifting "Nevermind"), Cobain reluctantly ruled as one of the most famous and influential rockers in the world -- ironic considering the troubled Seattle musician had spent most of his life forging his iconoclastic punk-infused music far away from the mainstream. After struggling with depression and heroin addiction for much of his life, Cobain ended his life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head less than two months after turning 27. He continues to be one of the most iconic and influential musicians in alternative music history.

Janis Joplin (19 January 1943 - 4 October 1970)
A Texas-born tornado with a stunningly soulful voice, Janis Joplin came to fame in 1967, when her San Francisco-based band Big Brother and the Holding Company performed at the Monterey Pop Festival and released its debut album. Her versions of Big Mama Thornton's "Ball and Chain" and the original "Piece of My Heart" became signature pieces, and Joplin went solo at the end of 1968. Her appetite for substances -- particularly Southern Comfort and heroin -- ultimately got the best of her, and while she was in the midst of recording her second solo album "Pearl" she was found dead at the Landmark Hotel in Los Angeles from a heroin overdose. The posthumously released "Pearl" hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, and Joplin was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995.

Jimi Hendrix (27 November 1942 - 18 September 1970)
No one wielded a guitar quite like Seattle's James Marshall Hendrix. Considered by many as the greatest axeman that ever lived, Jimi Hendix elevated the art of electric guitar-playing with his string of influential recording and legendary performances with his group The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Hendrix's life was cut tragically short in 1970 after her accidentally overdosed on sleeping pills and asphyxiated on his own vomit at his girlfriend's apartment in London.

Now here is something completely different, that some of you actually might like. Voorwaarts Mars features the very best collection of Classical and Military Marches! Featuring famous marches such as Marche Militaire Op.51 No.1, Strike Up The Band, Flower Of Scotland & many, many more. This 2 CD set is a must have for fans of Classical and Marching band music.

Singer Elvis Blue is in George and Plettenberg Bay area in the next few days. He'll be at the George Cheese Festival on 31 July and in the Plettenberg Bay area on Monday 1 August. The intuitive musician released his debut album, simply titled Elvis Blue, through Universal Records in December 2010. The album went gold within 29 days of its release, proving that meaningful music, such as this, has its place in the South African market. Since the album’s release, the singles Things My Father Said and Lighthouse have been played on radio stations across the country, allowing it to reach a wide cultural cross-section of fans, which has turned the album into a mammoth hit. The latest single, Save Me, is currently on playlists across the country and gaining airplay quickly. “If I am an influence in any way to my audience, I hope that it allows people to look at me and see someone who truly enjoys and loves music. Whether you make it or not, it’s who I am, and that’s what it’s about at the end of the day. If you have that gift to make music, it’s a wonderful privilege and you should cherish it,” he says. Bookings can be made by calling 044 533 432 or visit http://www.plettbarnyard.co.za/ for more information.

Event: Elvis Blue Live at the George Cheese Festival – 31 July
Venue: The George Cheese Festival, Mead, George
Ticket Prices: R56 per adults, R30 for children under 13.
Gates open early till late

Thirty years of Metallica... can you believe it? The heavy metal band, that was formed in 1981, think it's cause for a major celebration! So if you are in the San Francisco area in December, why not join the band in this special celebration. The band announced on their web page, "We will be playing four shows for Met Club members only at the historic Fillmore in San Francisco on 5, 7, 9 & 10 December to celebrate our 30th anniversary. These unique shows will include special guests and events, rare songs, varied set lists, odds and ends, and all the nutty stuff you expect from Metallica... fun for the entire family! Come to the Bay Area and spend the week with us to not only close out 2011 out with a bang, but to celebrate over three decades worth of craziness.
Participate in the entire week of festivities with special four pack tickets (one ticket for each of the four shows) and automatic entry into the contests for various other special events, available for the clever price of $19.81 (get it??). If you can't join us for the full week, we'll have individual show tickets too and as you can see we're going back to early '80's ticket pricing (but not the hair!)... single show tickets will be just $6.00 each. Both four packs and individual show tickets will be available for Fan Club members only through a reservation system and we do have to add facility fees, blah, blah. Clubbers can log in for all the details... we're taking reservations through 8 August." No word as yet if local music stores will join the celebration with rereleased CDs or DVDs. So why not hop on a jet plane and get your ass to San Francisco in December!

Wednesday, 27 July 2011

In celebration of their 20th Anniversary, Pearl Jam will debut Pearl Jam Twenty, a definitive portrait of the band as told by Academy Award®-winning filmmaker and music journalist, Cameron Crowe, at the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival on Saturday 10 September 2011. The film is told in big themes and bold colors with blistering sound, and chronicles the years leading up to the band’s formation, the chaos that ensued soon-after being catapulted into superstardom, their step back from the spotlight with the instinct of self-preservation, and the creation of a trusted circle that would surround them - giving way to a work culture that would sustain them. The film celebrates the freedom that allows the band to make music without losing themselves, their fans, or the music lovers they’d always been. “We put so much into the film – moments, pieces of footage shot by band members, audio snippets, visual bursts, new and old interviews – many different formats, all meant to present an emotional scrapbook of what it felt like to be a member of the band on this twenty-year journey,” said Cameron Crowe. “The richness of the footage made our path very clear – just tell the story of the band and let the music guide us. It was a joy to make this film, and we’re thrilled share it with the fans.” The captivating documentary gives fans and audiences an intimate first glimpse into Pearl Jam’s journey culled from more than 1,200 hours of rarely and never-before-seen footage, over 24 hours of recent interviews with the band, as well as live footage of their spellbinding concert performances.
The Pearl Jam Twenty soundtrack, released by Columbia Records/Sony Music Entertainment, is currently available for pre-order at www.PJ20.com for its release date of 20 September 2011. Comprised of a selected track listing by Cameron Crowe - the album is a true companion piece to the film. In addition, as part of their year-long celebration, Pearl Jam is releasing a Pearl Jam Twenty book on 13 September 2011. Published by Simon & Schuster in the U.S. and Atlantic Books in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, the Pearl Jam Twenty book is an aesthetically stunning chronicle of the band’s past two decades. Compiled and written by veteran music writer Jonathan Cohen with Mark Wilkerson, the book includes a foreword by Cameron Crowe (and material from all his own band interviews) as well as original interviews with Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, and Dave Grohl. The book is also available for pre-order now at www.PJ20.com.

Auditions for the 2011 amateur Open Mic Jazz Competition at GrandWest opens on Wednesday 3 August and runs through to 21 September at Jackson Hall. Would-be songbirds need to present themselves at Jackson Hall on audition nights, and the competition is closed to anyone under the age of 18 and professional singers. The quarter finals for the top 24 entrants will be held every Wednesday from 28 September to 5 October, followed by the semi finals for the top 12 entrants on Wednesday, 12 October. The final top six entrants will do battle for the top spot on Wednesday, 19 October. Contestants will get to perform two songs each on the night. The winner of the contest will receive R25 000 in cash plus a two-night stay at the Table Bay with breakfast and dinner at the Atlantic Grill included. Wilde & Marr sound suppliers will also sponsor a microphone for the winner. The second and third placed will receive R7 500 and R5 000 respectively. Entrants will be required to choose the song they intend performing from a selection of well known classics such as Moon River, My way, Fever, Route 66, The way you look tonight, Crazy and Making Whoopie. To assist the entrants with their audition, they will be accompanied by accomplished musicians Andrew Ford playing a baby grand piano, Westlin Rustin on double bass and Ivan Bell on drums. The three judges will focus on vocal technique, song interpretation, stage presence and audience response so friends, family and fans are encouraged to cheer and support their favourite entrants. This year, the judges will be popular personalities Bev Scott-Brown, Clarence Ford and Neil Potgieter. Last year’s winner, Sandile Gontsana will however, perform at the beginning of each audition round except on 20 and 31 August, when he has been selected to perform with the Standard Bank National Youth Jazz Band. Entry forms can be collected from Jackson Hall and the song list is available on www.heart1049fm.co.za. For more information, tune into Heart 104.9fm. Registration opens at 20h00 and the competition begins at 21h00. Entry is free.

One of The Beat's favourite local Afrikaans alternative bands, Die Heuwels Fantasties, will be kicking up frenzy this Sunday in Pretoria when they perform as part of the Old Mutual Music in the Gardens Concert series at the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens. The performance takes place in the middle of the natural beauty of the botanical gardens and fans are encouraged to come early, bring picnic chairs and blankets and spend the day in natural splendour. With a restaurant in the gardens and alcohol on sale plus a great supervised kiddies area, the crowd is all set for a great day. “Old Mutual's Music in the Gardens series is a brilliant concept. We're big fans of music and we're big fans of botanical gardens. Put the two together... Bam! Fantastic. We're really in our element when we're performing acoustically and we can't wait for our fans to see us in such a magical setting,” said Hunter Kennedy of the band.
The Old Mutual Music in the Gardens series presents live concerts every two weeks throughout the winter season at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden and is an extension of their sponsorship of the legendary Kirstenbosch Music series in Cape Town. All proceeds from the performances go to the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.
Die Heuwels Fantasties have been shattering sales records and garnering critical acclaim ever since the release of their self-titled debut album, and they continue they hold a firm position as one our country’s top alternative bands. Their behemoth of a hit “Pille vir Kersfees” has become the anthem to a generation of fans and the awards just keep rolling in. This performance at the Old Mutual Music in the Gardens series is a great opportunity for the band to connect with their fans in a natural setting – and to show them the time of their lives.

* The following acts are coming up next at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden:
14 August - Karen Zoid
28 August - Ses Snare
10 December - Carols by Candlelight

Tickets for all concerts are available at www.ticketbreak.co.za
Ticketbreak: R80.00
Pre-sale at gardens: R90.00
On day sales at gardens and ticketbreak: R100.00
Children under 13 are free.
Gates open: 12h00
Main act: 15h00
Gates close: 18h00

Tuesday, 26 July 2011

It's not only ABBA and Roxette that comes from Sweden, now there is new break-through artist Ola as well. During his first six years as an artist, Ola has enjoyed the sort of success that only a chosen few artists in Sweden get to experience. Numerous No1’s in both the singles and albums charts have paved the way for Ola to stand today as one of the foremost artists in his home country. The Gold discs were followed by Platinum discs, which soon led to nominations and awards at prestigious ceremonies such as Rockbjornen and Grammy for the Best Male Artist, the Best Song and the Best Album Of The Year.
Now, after six years at the top of his game, Ola finally feels ready to take on the world. What better way to start than with a song called ‘All Over The World’, a track that has just become another massive hit in his homeland. Ola is an artist following his own rules and having resisted international interest from record companies over the last few years, Ola now feels ready to launch his music outside of Sweden. Now several territories are ready to release Ola´s music, amongst them the UK, so 2011 is sure to be a big year for Ola.

Call him what you will: controversial, pompous ass, popular or a madman (like the ANCYL did!), but 5FM DJ Gareth Cliff knows how to deliver banging tunes. On his CD, It's The Weekend Baby!, he gets us up and grooving around on 22 fast paced, hard-hitting house tunes with a scoop of electronica and hip-hop thrown in, just to make it all more exciting! Artists included are Jozi, Pitbull, Alex Gaudino featuring Kelly Rowland, and Caro Emerald. It's a banging CD that is a must have if you are into dance and club music. Get it now!

Some of the world’s leading jazz musicians - appearing at this year’s Standard Bank Joy of Jazz which takes place at Emperor’s Palace on August 25 and in Newtown on August 26 and 27 - will run free workshops teaching youngsters and musicians the intricacies of the craft.
They are legendary trumpeter Wynton Marsalis, the winner of nine Grammy Awards® and the first jazz musician to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music; R&B singer Alexander O’Neal; Grammy and Tony Award-winning jazz diva Dee Dee Bridgewater; soul singer and keyboardist Frank McComb and the HGM Jazz Messengers. HGM is a Croatian musical NGO engaged in working with young musicians and is a member of JMI (Jeunesses Musicales International. The HGM Jazz Messengers are Sigi Feigi (tenor sax), Andreas Marinello (alto sax), Antonio Gecek (trumpet), Miron Huaser (trombone), Davor Dedic (piano), Norbert Farkas (bass) and Klaus Furstner (drums).
The music schools workshops take place on Wednesday, August 24, from 10am at the following venues:
Vereeniging City Hall (Sedibeng) – Alexander O’Neal
Music Academy of Gauteng (Ekurhuleni) – Wynton Marsalis
Johannesburg Central Music School (Johannesburg) – Frank McComb
South West Gauteng College (West Rand) – Dee Dee Bridgewater
Tshwane University of Technology (Tshwane) – HGM Jazz Messengers
“Accomplished musicians play an invaluable role by imparting knowledge and inspiring young musicians, thereby improving the standard of music for all,” comments Standard Bank Joy of Jazz producer, Mantwa Odutayo.
For more information on the workshops contact Teboho Mothoa at T Musicman on 011 326 0141 or email admin@tmusicman.co.za.

Monday, 25 July 2011

Local band Koldproduk has stepped up their musical game with their banging hot new track Round and Round on which they collaborate with French singer Greg Basso. On Round and Round, the band filmed a video that is all based on Alice in Wonderland. Nicky Campos, video director who has produced videos for heavyweights like Kabelo, Danny K and HHP, briefly explained the hilarious costumes: “Basically this song is about the dynamics of relationships so it’s like boys versus girls. We decided to take an Alice in Wonderland [fairytale] theme, keeping it fun but with a bit of concept in it.” Moki Sage, the lead vocalist in Koldproduk, says, "If you can’t find solutions for problems in your ‘relationshit’ out here in the real world, then try looking elsewhere, perhaps in the ideal world of make believe... This is pretty much the underlying theme of the chorus, interlaced with Alice’s Wonderland. My definition of ‘relationshit’ is when a perfectly good relationship turns to shit." Celebrites and cameos in the video include Koldproduk’s Moki Sage, T*Spark, DJ Soosh plus Greg Basso, the French artist they recorded with. "There’s an appearance by producer Ameen, and HC from Jax Pannick," says Moki, "also in the mix are dance crew Freeze Frame, plus select Facebook friends who heeded our online call."

Last year saw the first-ever Symphonic Rocks in Cape Town where Just Jinjer, Louise Carver, Watershed, aKING and Gang of Instrumentals playing their best known and loved songs together with a 65-piece symphony orchestra. It was a huge success! Now it's happening again, but this time expanding to Johannesburg as well.

Presented by Heineken® in association with 5FM, this year’s Symphonic Rocks feature a cross-genre mix (from rock to pop, adult contemporary, R&B, hip hop and electro) of some of South Africa’s most popular artists. These include the impressively versatile Arno Carstens, R&B star Loyiso, Ard Matthews of Just Jinjer, popular rock outfits CrashCarBurn and Zebra and Giraffe, critically acclaimed hip-hop outfit, Tumi & The Volume and Cape Town’s Flat Stanley. The country’s top-selling group of 2010, Locnville, will be part of the Symphonic Rocks Johannesburg’s line-up as will Freshlyground’s extraordinary vocalist, Zolani Mahola.

Symphonic Rocks is the brainchild of Flat Stanley’s frontman, Andy Mac who innovated the event in 2010. The concert was an unprecedented success, selling out and stimulating demand for the event in other cities. In response to this, the 2011 event again takes place at The Grand Arena Grand West Casino in Cape Town on 1 October before moving onto The Big Top Arena, Carnival City for the first-ever Johannesburg event on 7 October. Tickets cost R225 in Cape Town and R225, R250 and R275 in Joburg at Computicket.Bookings open on Friday 15 July 2011. Capacity at each of the venues is limited so fans are advised to book in advance.

Sunday, 24 July 2011

Amy Winehouse is dead. At the young age of 27, she has (apparently) succumed to notorious potholes of rock stardom- booz and drugs. It's sad. Very sad as is now one of the many artists who died at the age of 27. The multiple-Grammy winning artiste, who shot to fame for hits like "Rehab", "Stronger Than Me" and "Love Is A Losing Game", was most famous for her tryst with drugs and alcohol. Her death will heighten the enigma around one of the most unsettling phenomena in the history of music - Amy's joined Brian Jones (the guitarist of Rolling Stones), Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, Janis Joplin and Jim Morrison, all among 38 famous musicians who died at the young age of 27. The 27 Club, also known as Forever 27, has seen stars die of drug overdose, freak accidents, suicides, and even murder. Hendrix's biographer Charles R Cross wrote, "The number of musicians who died at 27 is truly remarkable by any standard. Humans die regularly at all ages... there is a statistical spike for musicians who die at 27."
The Times Of India reports that Amy, who was found dead in her apartment in north London on July 23, had a long and troubled relationship with drugs like cocaine and heroin, and alcohol. The soul singer saw many cancelled tours like the recent 12-stop European one, where she was booed off-stage in Siberia as she struggled to remember her own music lyrics. Amy, who was discovered at the age of 16, was constantly shuttling in and out of rehabs and suffered heartbreaks in the shape of ex-husband Blake Civil Fielder, who allegedly introduced her to cocaine and heroin.
"If you can't sort something out for yourself, no one can help you," Amy had once said, and this caught up with her as the singer struggled to overcome drug abuse. Although the police have not yet been able to explain her death, it's speculated that it was substance abuse. A few months back, her friends had said that doctors had warned the singer, who was famous for her beehive hairdo and heavy eye makeup that if she did not give up drugs and alcohol, her life could end soon. And before the beginning of her last tour in May 2011, Amy visited the London Priory Clinic for her addictions. She also suffered from mental health issues, one of them being depression. "Since I was 16, I've felt a black cloud hangs over me. Since then, I have taken pills for depression," she had said once.
Twitter exploded within minutes of the news of her death. Actress Sonam Kapoor tweeted, "#rip Amy winehouse for all the demons you faced I hope you at last have found your peace. I loved your big voice and your music. love & peace." Hollywood actress Demi Moore wrote, "Truly sad news about Amy Winehouse. My heart goes out to her family. May her troubled soul find peace." And hubby Ashton Kutcher tried to grapple for the right sentiments, "I nevr know wht 2 post after paying respect 2 sum1 who died. Just seems lk anything funny is inappropriate. mayB I'll just go C HarryPotter. (sic)." She had once said, "If I died tomorrow, I would be a happy girl." Hope she got that. Rest in peace, Amy Winehouse.
In a 2008 interview, Janis, Amy Winheouse's mother, had said that her daughter could be dead within the year. "I've known for a long time that my daughter has problems. But seeing it on screen rammed it home. I realise my daughter could be dead within the year. We're watching her kill herself, slowly. I've already come to terms with her death. I've steeled myself to ask her what ground she wants to be buried in, which cemetery. Because the drugs will get her if she stays on this road. I look at Heath Ledger and Britney. She's on their path. It's like watching a car crash - this person throwing all these gifts away," she'd said.
Mark Ronson has remembered his 'musical soulmate' Amy Winehouse following her death of a suspected drug overdose.
The musician, who famously collaborated with Winehouse on tracks including the hit Valerie, led the emotional tributes to the 27-year-old singer on micro-blogging site Twitter.
He told his followers: 'She was my musical soulmate and like a sister to me. This is one of the saddest days of my life.'
Celebrities, including Demi Moore, Sophia Bush, Anderson Cooper, and Winehouse's close friend Kelly Osbourne mourned the late singer on the social networking site Twitter.Kelly Osbourne said: I can't eve breath right now. I'm crying so hard I just lost one of my best freineds. I love you forever Amy & wil never forget the real you!Jessica Alba: So sad about Amy Winehouse - she was so talented. Really tracig.Demi Moore: Truly sad news about Amy Winehouse. My heart goes out to her family. May her troubled soul find peace. Rihanna: Dear God have mercy! I am SICK about this right now!Christina Applegate: Saddened by the demise of Amy Winehouse as wel all watched her slowly die all these years.

Wednesday, 20 July 2011

Singer Elvis Blue has been asked to front Disney XD’s Aim High, a brand new initiative designed to inspire a generation of kids to get the most out of life, try new things and be the best they can be. The Beat sat down with the talented singer to find out more about his involvement with the initiative.

How did you get involved with Disney XD’s Aim High? I was approached by Disney XD, to be the main mentor for Aim High. It’s a real privilege to have been selected. They were looking for mentor who was grounded and successful in a particular field. Its wonderful to be a role model to younger boys and it is flattering and humbling that they thought I fit the part perfectly.

What exactly is Disney XD’s Aim High? Aim High is Disney XD (DStv Channel 304)’s, brand new initiative designed to inspire a generation of kids to get the most out of life, try new things and be the best they can be. Disney XD’s Aim High will offer fans the chance to win a Mentorship Day with Main Mentor Elvis Blue and two Mini Mentors respectively. The Mini Mentors are award winning music video producer, Kyle Lewis and renowned drummer, Justin Badenhorst. Every three months, Disney XD’s Aim High will give kids across the country the chance to win a series of mentorships in a different field to learn how to realise their true potential. Entries to win the Mentorship Day with Elvis, Kyle or Justin, closes on 10 August. Boys can go to www.disneyxd.disney.co.za/stunt/aim-high to enter.

How long have you been involved with this and what is the main thing that it has taught you? Since the inception of the project with Disney XD, I have been involved for a couple of months. The main part of the project, the actual Mentorship Day - still lie ahead. I suppose I will learn the most when I get to spend a day with the winner. Until now I have been inspired by Disney XD’s bold move to not only provide entertaining programming for boys, but to embark on a campaign like this that provides boys with strong and influential mentors. The Aim High campaign is supported in various other territories around the world so I’m part of a bigger team of Disney mentors.
What exactly happens at these “Disney experiences?” Well after Disney XD fans go on line to enter, a winner will be selected. They then get to spend a day with me to experience “a day in the life of a musician”. On this day the winner will accompany me to a big concert, hang out with me back stage and get to meet quite a few interesting people. He will also have a chance to make great connections in the music industry!

How many children have you mentored through Disney XD’s Aim High? The campaign only facilitates one winner per mentor. So, the Mini Mentors Kyle and Justin will also be mentoring one person each, meaning that in total, three children will be mentored through the music phase on Aim High. Disney XD will also embark on a sport phase later this year. Details for that phase 2 will be announced later in the year.

What’s your biggest wishes for the children of South Africa? My wish for the children of the country would be that they are inspired to make a difference.

Puts your hands up for HHP! The top rapper is set to release his new CD Motswafrika by 1 September. The offering's lead single "Past Time", featuring Cassper Nyovest, KGzim and Omar El, debuted on Live this past Friday. The album features contributions from Teepee, Tuks Senganaga, Talib Kweli, Raheem Devaughn, Nothende, Thasman, Elemente, DJ Hamma, Gabriel Asheru Benn and the Grammy Nominated Carolyn Malachi. Jabulani Tsambo, better known as Hip Hop Pantsula (HHP) or Jabba is a South African rap artist who performs in multiple languages, although primarily Setswana. Raised in Mmabatho, HHP's break came in 1997 when he and his school friends met with renowned producer Chicco Twala who produced their debut Party. The band split soon after the release of Party. Tsambo met singer/producer Isaac Methethwo who then worked full swing on Jabu's 2nd debut album. The result was Introduction, an album that introduced a new, vibrant and innovative genre. The album was recorded in different South African ethnic tongues like Setswana, isiZulu and Sesotho, to name a few. HHP appeared on the third one-off TV special of quiz show Test The Nation, entitled National Parenting Test, as the Team Captain representing fathers.In 2007 he won the third season of the reality dance show Strictly Come Dancing along with his professional dance partner Hayley Bennett. In 2008 he starred as himself in 11 episodes of the e.tv musical soapie Rhythm City. He made his debut on the show on 4 April, 2008. Go check out the video for his new single HERE.

The Parlotones will be performing at The Grand Arena on the 6th August 2011 to raise awareness to the CarbonWorx Carbon free campaign. The Parlotones have been chosen to be the drive’s spokespersons and the performance is part of a series of successful concerts to raise awareness.
The Parlotones are no strangers to the fight against Global Warming and understand the importance of education, lending their high profile to initiatives such as Live Earth, Earth Hour and Live Earth’s Run for Water. The band practice what they preach and embark on Meat Free Mondays doing their best to go beyond the gesture and reduce their carbon footprint.
“A cause affecting the world, more so the future of the world is global warming. We have been big campaigners for both Earth Hour and Live Earth, trying to convince fans to change slight living habits to affect a big change.” Says lead singer Kahn Morbee. “We are not really here to preach to our fans. We can create awareness and our fans can digest it and react in whatever way.” Kahn added.
Tickets to the show can be bought through Computicket.

Tuesday, 19 July 2011

Local rockers The Dirty Skirts are launching their much anticipated new album, Lost In The Fall, at Zula Bar in Cape Town on Saturday 23 July. The album was recorded at Heritage Studios in Cape Town, produced by Neal Snyman, mastered at Sterling Sound Studios in New York and released through 2 Feet, an imprint of Sheer Sound cc. Lost in the Fall is quite different from any previous offerings from THE DIRTY SKIRTS. Whether it's an evolution or a sudden change in direction - it’s heavier in parts, and it’s deeper in content. They have written some of the most complex and interesting music of their careers so far. To them, Lost In the Fall is the best work they've ever done and it is reflected in the 12 tracks of deep, beautiful and intense music. “LITF is a visceral, dark, lyrical and dreamy album. It's our finest work to date, and we've poured our heart and soul into it.” Our intention going into this recording was to take control of every aspect of the process. We've known what we wanted it to sound like, and asked Neal and Brendyn to assist us to realize the vision. Recording at Heritage Studios with Brendyn (Rusti) was a sublime experience. Rusti is a great ear to have in the studio when you put down your tracks. His role was much more than engineering the recording process - he's been a vision in his own right, and very, very supportive. Neal's role was to mix the album, and we achieved some really creative and exciting sonic executions with him.”

Old Mutual Jazz at the Theatre celebrates Women’s Month by presenting Asanda Bam to dazzle audiences with her captivating sound on 7 August. Taking place at the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, this show - the fourth in the series - promises to give fans an unforgettable jazz experience. Asanda Bam will deliver songs from her debut album Fragile. Classified as Jazz/Fusion and Blues in the South African genre, the album’s Afro-soul elements and African Adult contemporary fusion is sure to enthrall fans. Her music career includes performances as a backing vocalist for leading South African artists such as Gloria Bosman, Thandiswa Mazwai, Swazi Dlamini, Mafikizolo and Tshepo Tshola. She has also shared the stage with international artists Angelique Kidjo, Corinne Bailey Rae and Jamelia. Bandile Mngoma, Sponsorship Manager for Old Mutual South Africa, says: “Our partnership with Swazitainment on this series is realising its goal of giving jazz artists the opportunity to showcase their talent. The need for the series is huge and its popularity can be attributed to the significant talent South African artists possess.” The emerging spotlight artist for the month is Sibusiso Buthelezi. He obtained a diploma in music and has worked with a number of power voices such as Sibongile Khumalo, Jimmy Dludlu and Joyous Celebration. His achievements include a role in Afrika-Afrika, a production that was staged in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and UK. Mngoma adds: “The response of the audience to spotlight artists is incredible, which encourages these emerging performers to work hard at perfecting their craft so that when they launch their solo careers in the highly competitive musical environment they will succeed. Our aspiration is to see them empowered to extend beyond the Old Mutual Jazz at the Theatre stage to do more great things.”
Previous artists who have brought jazz rhythm and meaning to the stage include Selaelo Selota, Kunle Ayo and Mimi Ntenjwa. The local jazz greats lined up to perform on the Old Mutual Jazz at the Theatre stage include Judith Sephuma and Tshepo Mngoma. Asanda Bam’s show will start at 18:30. Tickets cost R120. Book at www.computicket.com or call the theatre on 011 883 8606.

Sorry Monsters, but it seems that S&M singer Rihanna has overtaken Lady Gaga to become the most popular female artist on Facebook. Billboard reports that according to social media statistics site Famecount.com, Rihanna passed Gaga early Thursday morning 14 July, with the Barbados native currently sitting at 40,598,000 Facebook fans compared to Gaga's 40,565,000 fans. However, Lady Gaga's Twitter presence - 11.6 million followers and counting - dwarfs Rihanna's 6.1 million followers on the site. After crossing 40 million Facebook fans on Wednesday, Rihanna posted, "40 mil! 1 LOVE #RihannaNavy." She also acknowledged yesterday's Facebook milestone by retweeting a fan who wrote, "I just read that @rihanna is the most liked female on facebook #yougogirl #winning." The only musical artist who still tops Rihanna on Facebook is her "Love the Way You Lie" collaborator, Eminem, who currently has 43.3 million fans. Rihanna clocks in at No. 6 on this week's Social 50 chart.

Ah, at last! Some new music from one of The Beat's favourite rock band, The Red Hot Chili Peppers. The band return (with a new guitarist) with new single The Adventure of Rain Dance Maggie, takens from the forthcoming album, I'm With You, due out 30 August. "Hey now, you'ge to make it rain somehow," Chili leadsinger Anthony Kiedis sings on the upbeat funk track, which recalls the group's Danie California song. Josh Klinghoffer, the band's former touring guitarist who has replaced John Frusciante full-time, fits in nicely on this track, with his screeching riffs contrasting with Flea's bass lines and the use of a cowbell at the end of the song.

Monday, 18 July 2011

Leona Lewis’s incredible story continues today with the announcement of her brand new single ‘Collide’. With ‘Collide’, the record-breaking international superstar from Hackney showcases a new sound that is set to dominate dance floors across Europe this summer. ‘Collide’, a dance-pop anthem, is a departure from Leona's signature sound and is her first new recorded material to be heard since the release of her Number 1 album ‘Echo’ in 2009. ‘Collide’ is a massive tune with a euphoric catchy chorus. Built around a staccato piano riff 'Collide' builds and builds into an immense anthem. Leona’s world class vocal is instantly recognisable and is a powerful reminder as to why she has enjoyed such incredible global success to date. Talking about ‘Collide’ Leona said: “I’m excited for people to see a different side to my music. I’m a fan of so many different genres and styles. For me this song has all the great ingredients of a summer anthem. I can’t wait for my fans to hear it and to share the rest of the album.”
The ‘Collide’ package also features a remix by the hottest DJ/producer in the world right now, Afrojack (Grammy award winner, credits include US no 1 Pitbull ‘Give Me Everything’ and remixes for Madonna, Lady GaGa, Black Eyed Peas, Tinie Tempah, Snoop Dogg). In the last few days Afrojack has already road tested his remix a couple of times in Ibiza, getting great responses with audiences demanding to know who the tune is by.
Marking a new chapter for the multi-platinum selling artist, ‘Collide’ is the first track to be taken from Leona’s as yet untitled third studio album, which she is currently putting the finishing touches to, due for release in November. Leona has been working with the world’s most prestigious songwriting and production talent including Sandy Vee (Katy Perry ‘Firework’, Rihanna ‘Only Girl In The World’, David Guetta ‘Where Them Girls At’), Autumn Rowe (Alexis Jordan ‘Happiness’), Ammo (Katy Perry ‘E.T’), Jonas Quant (Hurts), Chuck Harmony (Rihanna ‘Russian Roulette’), Claude Kelly (Bruno Mars ‘Grenade’) and ‘Bleeding Love’ writer/producer, Ryan Tedder. Leona has been working with incredible UK talent including Fraser T Smith (Adele ‘Set Fire to the Rain’, Florence ‘You Got the Love’), Al Shux (Alicia Keys ‘Empire State of Mind)’, Steve Robson (James Morrison, Take That), Naughty Boy and Emeli Sande. Her previous albums ‘Spirit’ and ‘Echo’ both topped the UK album chart. More news will be announced soon.
Since winning over the hearts and minds of the public in 2006, Leona’s incredible Hackney to Hollywood fairytale has seen her sell over 10 million albums worldwide. Her unrivalled international successes and achievements have seen her win multiple Grammy and BRIT nominations. She’s enjoyed chart success internationally with number one albums and singles, she became the first-ever British artist to debut at Number 1 in the US album charts and her single ‘Bleeding Love’ was Number 1 on over 35 singles/airplay charts. Leona has also performed live at some of the world’s most prestigious events including Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday concert and represented Great Britain at the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics alongside Jimmy Page and David Beckham. Last year Leona completed her first sell out UK arena tour.
2011 looks set to be another incredible year for Leona Lewis on what has been an incredible journey so far… let the next chapter begin.

Two of South Africa's top gospel musicians Rebecca Malope and Lindelani Mkhize won prestigious international Gospel awards last week. MIO reports they were honoured at the second Africa Gospel Music and Media Awards (AGMA) held on 9 July at the Lighthouse Hall in London. Mkhize, who is the co-founded Joyous Celebration fifteen years ago, was recognised for his contribution to African gospel music. Malope received the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as the Best Video award. South Africa-based Nigerian singer Uche Agu of my “God is good” fame was named as the Best gospel musician for 2011. Founded in 2009, the AGMA serve as the face and voice for the African gospel music community.

Singer Elvis Blue has been chosen to support James Blunt when he returns to South Africa in August 2011 as part his ‘Some Kind of Trouble World Tour’. He will be performing on Wednesday 24th August at the ICC Durban Arena, 26th August at the Coca-Cola Dome Johannesburg, Sunday 28th August at the Vodacom NMMU Indoor Arena Port Elizabeth and now in Cape Town on 30th August at Grand Arena, GrandWest.
Elvis Blue, winner of South African idols 2010, started his music career early, singing in school choirs and busking. After a stint overseas as a street musician, Elvis returned to South Africa where he decided to study contemporary music. While living in George he met the friend whose name he would adopt in 2008. “My wife works at an organisation that is a hospice and children’s home and I met this little boy there when I used to go and play my guitar for them. He really wanted to be a keyboard player, and his name was Elvis Blaauw”, he says. When he passed away in 2009, as a tribute to this amazing young man, Jan Hoogendyk adopted his name and Elvis Blue was born. After winning South African idols in 2010 Elvis Blue released an album that would change his list as a musician, simply titled Elvis Blue. Upon the album’s release in November 2010, it shot up the radio and sales charts and reached Gold status within 29 days of its release. The first two singles “Things my Father said” and “Lighthouse” are massive hits and the third single “Save Me” is currently play listed on radio stations across the country.
Blunt’s first album, “Back to Bedlam,” catapulted him to worldwide superstardom on the strength of massive songs such as “You’re Beautiful,” “High” and “Goodbye My Lover.” His second album, 2007’s “All the Lost Souls,” debuted at No. 1 in 10 countries, selling nearly 5 million copies globally and featuring such hits as “1973,” ”Same Mistake” and “Carry You Home.” He has received numerous awards and accolades including two Brit Awards, two World Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, an MTV European Music Award and five Grammy nominations.
His latest album “Some Kind of Trouble” starts a new chapter. Produced mainly by Steve Robson, key tracks include ‘’So Far Gone”, “Superstar” and “Stay the Night”; where Blunt joined songwriting forces with OneRepublic’s Ryan Tedder. Indeed, as much as he loves making new music, for Blunt, the ultimate joy comes from playing the songs live and sharing them with an audience. And with a new tour starting in 2011, he’s looking forward to getting back out there. As the recording process comes to a close, he’s waiting to climb back on the bus. “Put the album out and get me on tour,” he says. “We’re going to have the time of our lives playing these songs.”
When Elvis Blue found out he has been chosen to support James Blunt he responded:
“Being able to do what I love is something I am very thankful for and being able to perform on the same stage with great, international artists makes me realise how truly privileged I am. Saying that I am excited about performing on the same night as James Blunt would be a tremendous understatement, a year ago I could never have imagined this. I am thrilled and I look forward to the show.”

Not even celebs are immune to crime! MIO reports that Honeydew police officers are looking for three men who terrorised DJ Cleo's Weltevreden Park house at the weekend. Cleo had stepped out, when four armed burglars broke into his house. As they were trashing his house, a neighbour saw them and called the police, who surrounded the house. Despite the intervention, the burglars made away with two flat screen TV sets and a computer. One of them was gunned down while trying to escape. Internet reports say the shooting lasted for about 30 minutes. Honeydew police spokesperson Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs confirms there was a burglary at Cleo’s house and that one suspect aged 30 was killed by the police.